Day One: Psalm 120

Psalm 120
This psalm begins the series of 15 psalms that lead us on a journey. For the faithful Jew, these were the songs that were prayed on the way to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. It is said that on approaching Jerusalem, one has to ascend; thus, the name of these psalms. The first psalm takes us to a place of distress. That is something that many of us can relate too! The psalmist calls out to the Lord. That is one of the keys. One the journey to Jerusalem, one could encounter many difficulties along the way. One could even feel the tension of being in two places at once. That is what the psalmist means as when he states that he dwells in Meshech and live among the tents of Kedar! Both places are geographically in opposite places; both though are places of hostility. This is shown by the references to the lying lips and tongues of deceit. This very well could be the reason why the psalmist desires to be back in Jerusalem; to be close to the place where the Lord dwells (the Temple), and away from those around seek war rather than peace!

Pray Psalm 120 – words of desire, words for deliverance!

Using the steps of Lectio Divina as shared in the praying with the scriptures post, what are the thoughts, feelings, and desires that arise after praying over this psalm slowly?

Are there any words or phrases that stand out to you that give you courage as you continue on the pilgrimage to the eternal Jerusalem?

Write down the word or phrase down in your journal or notebook. Memorize it, and pray it during the day. The psalmist used these words on his journey, the faithful Jew did on pilgrimage to the Holy City Jerusalem, and we are invited to pray them as we journey through life on our way to the Heavenly Jerusalem – our eternal home!